I Timothy 4:16
Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
Paul listed two other principles for serving that one should have:
Thirdly, is to be watchful of one's life and doctrine closely. Ministry in tune with God's desire never rely on one's work and talent. God looks heavily upon whether there is a spirit of service inside us. As we come before the Lord, we should ask not only how we should serve, but also seriously examining our reason for serving. Many serve God to satisfy their own desires; others may feel uneasy if they do not serve; and many others are looking for more blessings in return.
What is your purpose in serving God? Is it for yourself or for God Himself? Too much emphasis has been placed in today's church on gifts of serving, but too little on the attitude of a servant. John 13 recorded on the day of Passover, the disciples squabbled about who was the Lord's most favorite disciple or who was most spiritual? Nobody wanted to be the second, but after travelling for a whole day with their feet covered with dust, nobody was willing to kneel down to wash other people's feet. It was at this time, Jesus took off his robe and prostrated and washed the disciples' feet, yet never did He say, "Look , I am setting up an examples for you all."
Fourthly, is perseverance. Regardless how difficult the task may be or how weary our spirits may be, we should never be prevented from being close to God or serving Him. Many may quit half-way not because of not knowing God's will, but because of not able to persevere or withstand criticisms. Many encounter failures and quit due to embarrassment even though they know they have this gift.
After prophet Elijah was victorious for God at Mount Carmel, he provoked Queen Jezebel and was pursued by her. When Elijah learnt of this news, he immediately fled to Beersheba and prayed for his own death. He was later awakened by the angel who provided him food and told him, "Arise, for you still have a long way to go!" Brothers and sisters, there are a lot of work entrusted to us by God which has yet to be accomplished; we still have a long way to go, do not give up prematurely. The author of the book Hebrews encouraged us, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us". May the Lord encourage us once again with His spirit.
Pray with Pastor Tong
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.